Ricky Tomlinson has donated £1 million to a charity housing the families of very poorly children.

The Royle Family star dug deep to ensure 15 more apartments could be built at Ronald McDonald House in Liverpool.

Despite being one of the biggest of its kind in Europe, the accommodation is full every night with families of patients at Alder Hey Children's Hospital.

The comic actor said: "I'm delighted to be here today to support Ronald McDonald House at Alder Hey. The house provides a vital lifeline to parents and families who come to hospital with their critically ill children and these new apartments will be able to give them some much needed support during an incredibly difficult time.

"I'm looking forward to seeing them completed in June 2011."

Jan Thomas, the charity's house director, said: "The apartments will provide our families with privacy, normality, and most importantly their own front door. Each room will have one bedroom, kitchen, dining and lounge facilities along with a bathroom and will be able to accommodate up to four people.

"This is a really exciting time for us and we are thrilled that Ricky has joined us today to take part in our celebration.

"On behalf of Ronald McDonald House, I would like to thank him for his generous donation along with all those families and other supporters who have all played their part in making this fantastic new development happen."

Ricky's cheque will pay for the majority of the £1.5 million development.

Charity bosses were stunned when they realised the size of the donation.